| The Technique |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a diagnostic
technique based on the fact that certain atomic nuclei, placed in a magnetic field and
acted upon by a suitable radio frequency pulse, undergoes changes in their energy states
which result in a measurable radio signal. |
| MRI Advantages |
1. provides superb contrast resolution and
spatial resolution
2. spatial resolution of the MRI can be improved to 0.1 mm or better
3. No harmful biological effects
4. Cost-effective because it can be used to obtain multiple tomographic images
in different planes (multi-slice imaging) without having to reposition the patient.
Slice selection is accomplished electronically.
5. Images can be obtained directly in axial, sagittal and coronal planes.
6. Enhancement of some information with the suppression of others is possible. |
| MRI
Disadvantages |
1. Controversy about the best magnetic
strength for imaging
2. The scanning takes an hour or more
3. very close observation is difficult
4. The initial installation is very expensive.
5. Liquid He is expensive.
6. Necessity for security against the introduction of ferromagnetic objects inside
the room.
7. Need to exclude patients with metal prosthesis. |
| MRI Indications |
1. elective examination of the brain and the
spinal cord
2. Study of neoplasmic, ischemic, traumatic, degenerative and metabolic
diseases
3. Examination of male and female malignancies especially for staging of
malignancies
4. examination of cancellous bones
5. study of neoplastic and inflammataroy diseases of the lymph nodes
6. Examination of the heart with ECG gating and large blood vessels
7. Liver, kidneys and adrenals |
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